Ryan and friend

Mommy, Daddy, I'm saying Hi to Grandma?

This one is for you, Grandma!

Nathan

soccer with determination and no airplane distractions

Wednesday, March 28, 2012

Singletons

We live in a society that has now noticed a sharp increase in "going alone." In America, 28% of households consist of one person. What has caused this increase of loners? Many feel that we have not adequately provided for this demographic change, and in some ways, have not addressed the need of especially the lone seventy year old persons, who in times of a heat wave, may need to be looked in on. These are safety issues,but there are many other concerns.

City life allows the lone person the social atmosphere to spend time at bars, or clubs, interacting with friends or neighbors. That number is said to consist of 40%. Small towns do not offer the same small housing units needed, nor in some cases, transportation, allowing them to connect with other people. Some are totally cut-off from society, and are sad and lonely.

What has caused this unnamed social change, which now includes one out of every seven, where living alone, does not necessarily mean being alone? Yet, in some cases there is an appeal of going alone. Sometimes it is a case of not settling for living with the wrong person, as in the past. It means not having to share with anyone else, and to keep what is mine. Not having to answer to anyone but yourself could be another reason. Doing what you want and when you want, could be another reason. All good enough for some but that could suggest other social factors not being addressed. Would they want to be with someone if that person were to be made known to them, somehow?

This lifestyle is sharply on the increase, for whatever reason, it has it's appeal.

Life is constantly changing here in America. Years ago, people were so community minded, and the more the merrier, is not the case now.

I for one, do not find these statistics healthy. It means to me once again, that sadly we are losing something rich and essential.

Our parish offers a community meal three times a month, with a growing need for many reasons. Feeding lone people is one of the reasons that it has become such a success. People tell us that sometimes, it is the only meal that they get to eat out with someone else all week. It is good to be with others, as there is nothing else going on in a non-city atmosphere most of the time, which is affordable. And for some singletons, it is an answer to prayer.

Polar Express, Nate and Daddy

Ryan

Son, Bill, His wife Angie & Nathan

Son, Lt. Steve and Jean

John and Laura

Nathan holding his green monster while being held by the Green Monster of the Red Sox

Wally the Green Monster at St. Michael's Festival, July 19

My son Bill with his son Nathan

Baptism

Playing in the dirt

One of Nathan's favorite activities

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National Geographic Photos

Welcome

Many will wonder how I came up with this very unusual title. Who in their right mind would want to blog on this topic. A mom, grandmother, or anyone who cares for small children, worldwide. What if I told you to kiss the boo-boo is the "cure all" for all ages? That has been my philosophy for and the basis for this blog. What am I, I am a boo-boo kisser. I make it all better. I am sharing my thoughts and views, not intended to offend any reader, but to express the lessons life has taught me. These are solely my experiences and reflect my feelings! Looking for others to share as well...